The Gelatin Dilemma in Classic Candy Hearts
For many, Valentine's Day is synonymous with the small, pastel-colored candy hearts featuring sweet messages. Yet, behind the innocent facade of "Be Mine" and "Kiss Me," lies a critical ingredient for those with dietary restrictions: gelatin. Gelatin is a protein derived from animal collagen, typically obtained from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of cattle and pigs. For this reason, candies containing it are not considered vegetarian or vegan. The use of gelatin gives candy certain textural properties, such as a chewy or slightly soft consistency, even in a hard-pressed candy form. In the case of candy hearts, it acts as a binder and gelling agent, contributing to the final product's specific mouthfeel.
Sweethearts and Other Major Brands
When the New England Confectionery Company (Necco) produced the original Sweethearts, they used gelatin in the recipe. After Spangler Candy Company acquired the brand, their formulas for Sweethearts and other conversation hearts also included this animal-derived ingredient. A review of the ingredient lists for products like Brach's Tiny Conversation Hearts also confirms the presence of gelatin. While the exact composition can change over time and with different manufacturers, gelatin is a recurring and common ingredient in many American-made candy hearts.
Gelatin-Free Alternatives
Fortunately, for those seeking a cruelty-free option, the market is not without hope. Several brands and types of candy hearts are made without gelatin. Swizzels, a British confectionery company, produces a version called Love Hearts that is explicitly labeled as vegan, using plant-based alternatives for binding. Some specialty vegan candy brands, like Crafted Candy, also produce gelatin-free peach hearts. For those willing to put in a little effort, making homemade conversation hearts is another viable option. Recipes for vegan versions often substitute gelatin with plant-based gelling agents such as agar-agar.
Understanding the Label
Reading the ingredients list is the most reliable way to determine if a specific candy heart product contains gelatin. Always look for a clear "vegan" or "vegetarian" label, but if one is absent, scrutinize the ingredients. Beyond gelatin, other animal-derived ingredients can appear in candy, such as carmine (a red food coloring from cochineal insects), shellac (a glaze made from lac beetles), and some types of stearic acid, though these are not typically in classic candy hearts. For example, the ingredients list for Spangler's Sweethearts clearly shows "Gelatin," making it clear for consumers.
Gelatinous vs. Gelatin-Free Candy Hearts
To illustrate the difference, here is a comparison of two popular candy heart types.
| Feature | Classic Sweethearts (Spangler) | Love Hearts (Swizzels) |
|---|---|---|
| Key Gelling Agent | Gelatin (animal-derived) | Plant-based ingredients |
| Dietary Suitability | Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans | Vegan and vegetarian friendly |
| Origin | American | British |
| Iconic Messages | Uses classic messages and phrases | Features classic romantic messages |
| Texture | Firm, chalky texture typical of classic pressed-sugar candy | Chewy and sherbet-like |
The History Behind the Ingredients
Before Necco's famous Sweethearts, the candies were lozenges manufactured by Daniel Chase, an apothecary. His brother, Oliver Chase, later mechanized the process, leading to the creation of the Necco company. In 1902, the machine was adapted to stamp words on the heart-shaped candies. This historical process explains why the formula uses simple, accessible ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and sometimes gelatin, which was a common binding agent at the time. Over the years, while some recipes evolved, the core inclusion of gelatin in the traditional American recipe often remained. For a deeper dive into the history of American sweets, the National Confectioners Association offers a wealth of information regarding industry trends and ingredient changes over time.
Reading Labels for Vegan-Friendly Candies
Navigating the candy aisle can be tricky for those with specific dietary needs. To find truly vegan candy hearts, always check the label thoroughly. Look for certifications like the "Certified Vegan" logo, or carefully scan the ingredient list for key animal-derived components like gelatin. Some brands might not have official certification but still be accidentally vegan. This requires careful scrutiny of all ingredients, including colors and flavorings. When in doubt, search online for the specific brand name and "vegan" to check for third-party verification or official company statements.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to "do candy hearts have gelatin in them?" is: it depends on the brand. Traditional and widely available American brands like Sweethearts and Brach's often do contain animal-derived gelatin. However, several international companies and specialty brands offer delicious and cruelty-free alternatives. For vegetarians and vegans, the key is to always read the ingredient list before purchasing. By doing so, you can still enjoy the sweet tradition of candy hearts without compromising your dietary principles, proving that love—in candy form—can truly be for everyone.
